Once you have completed the application process and have become a Dementia Friendly Community, it can be difficult to keep the momentum going.
Here are some suggestions:
- Create a strong task force of key people in the community
- Develop connection with local government officials
- Integrate sector training into existing structures, such as the HR process and new employee training
- Develop champion within businesses who can oversee training for that area
- Use the soon to be released Dementia Friendly Evaluation Guide to set new goals and give direction to task force
- Collect some wins which can be shared – personal stories and data
- Approach local businesses for sponsorships. Helps with community investment
- Rotate who is the chair of the task force
- Sign up for grants.gov to be aware of possible funding opportunities
Keep Your Community Updated on Dementia Friendly Efforts
Some communities have developed resource guides. These guides provide information for families living with dementia, people who live and work in in the community. Here are some examples of the guides developed by communities in Illinois.
Some communities use websites to share Dementia Friendly news and resources with the community. Here are some of the websites from Illinois to use as examples:
- Dementia Friendly Elgin
- Dementia Friendly Evanston
- Dementia Friendly Glencoe
- Dementia Friendly Oak Park
- Dementia Friendly Westmont
Dementia Friendly Cards
Dementia Friendly Illinois has created cards which can be shared with families. There is room on the back of the card for sharing a Dementia Friendly Community website or contact information. This space is not meant for specific businesses or organizations. Contact Susan Frick if you would like copies of these cards mailed to you or to obtain an electronic version.
Join the Sustainability Sub-Committee
This sub-committee meets every other month and discusses ways to maintain Dementia Friendly efforts after achieving recognition. For information, email Susan Frick.